Potato Skin Tacos

Potato Skin Tacos are a mouthwatering fusion of two favorite comfort foods: crispy baked potato skins and hearty, flavorful tacos. Instead of using tortillas, these tacos use potato skins as the edible shell, creating a fun and satisfying way to enjoy all your favorite taco toppings with an extra crispy, cheesy edge. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a unique family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A creative twist on taco night
• Crispy, cheesy potato skins make a delicious base
• Customizable with your favorite taco toppings
• Great as an appetizer, snack, or main course
• Naturally gluten-free with the right seasonings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large russet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Ground beef or ground turkey
• Taco seasoning
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Sour cream
• Diced tomatoes
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Jalapeños or hot sauce (optional for spice)

Directions

this recipe

1. Bake the potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes, pierce with a fork, and bake directly on the rack for 45–60 minutes, or until tender.
2. Scoop and crisp: Let potatoes cool slightly. Cut in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers, leaving a ¼-inch border. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake skin-side-up on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes until crispy.
3. Cook the taco filling: While skins bake, brown the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and a splash of water, simmering until well combined and thickened.
4. Assemble the tacos: Fill each crisped potato skin with the taco meat and top with shredded cheese. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Top and serve: Remove from oven and top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and any additional toppings you like. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 8 potato skin tacos (serves 4 as a meal or 8 as appetizers)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the meat for black beans, lentils, or a plant-based taco filling
• Spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or use a spicy taco seasoning
• Loaded: Add guacamole, salsa, corn, or pickled red onions
• Cheese lovers: Use a combination of cheddar, pepper jack, and cotija for depth of flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes, or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until hot and crisp
• Freezing: Not recommended as the potatoes can become mushy after thawing

FAQs

Can I prepare the potato skins in advance?

Yes, you can bake and scoop the potatoes ahead of time. Store the skins in the fridge and crisp them just before assembling.

What can I do with the scooped-out potato flesh?

Use it for mashed potatoes, potato cakes, or save it for soup or shepherd’s pie.

Can I use sweet potatoes?

Definitely. They add a touch of sweetness and pair well with spicy or tangy toppings.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your taco seasoning and toppings are gluten-free.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives and swap sour cream for a plant-based version.

Do I need to use meat?

Not at all! Black beans, lentils, or tofu taco filling work great for a vegetarian option.

Can I use store-bought potato skins?

Yes, just heat and fill them according to the package instructions.

What toppings go well with these?

Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped onions, shredded lettuce, and hot sauce are all great options.

Are they good for parties?

Absolutely! Serve them on a platter with toppings on the side so guests can customize their own.

Can I make them in an air fryer?

Yes, cook the skins and reheat them in the air fryer for extra crispiness—perfect for small batches.

Conclusion

Potato Skin Tacos are the ultimate comfort food mashup. Crispy, cheesy, and fully loaded with your favorite taco toppings, they’re a fun and satisfying way to switch up your mealtime routine. Whether you serve them as a party snack or main dish, these creative tacos are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

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